<b><u>Notes from Nepal&nbsp;</u></b>

Our last few weeks in Nepal have been life changing for all of our family. In one of our debrief chats we each commented on the impact that our time here had wrought, without exception we each had been touched by the people, the customs, the culture, the landscape and the genuine transformation of the girls that we have witnessed.

Spending time most days with the girls has developed wonderful relationships that deepen as we share and spend time in each others company. The stories of past lives may seem distant but reality tells us that only a few months ago a life of struggle and hardship tore deep wounds that surface periodically. The grace that has been extended then floods over them and smiles quickly return, though the scars will take time to heal the outlook of the girls is extremely positive. Their past is behind them and the girls resolutely determine to look forward and upward. This touching recognition of transformation is something that cannot be witnessed and remain untouched.

The bus trip to the Surkhet province and the town of Chinnchiu was an epic ordeal as we negotiated mountain roads, Nepali passing manoeuvres on and off the road, live stock on the road, pedestrians on the road, hawkers on the road, amazing scenary that often slipped onto the road and military check points built on the road. These and the reshaping of your backside to the bus seating after twenty two hours made each rest stop a highly sort after time.

Once there, the school opening was attended by dignitaries and school officials in a formal ceremony that honoured the work in the community. Opportunities in this area abound and the relationships between the school, town leaders and local government are paramount. 

After the formal proceedings the youth concert was a time of full on celebration. The crowd packed the venue, hung out windows and doors to gain a vantage point. Pastor Raju was the first to jump on stage to party and from here the crowd spilt onto the stage to really get their groove on. A great time was enjoyed by all.

Our trip home strengthened relationships and gave us opportunity to experience Nepal like locals as our hosts showed us life through their eyes. Eating in local food stalls, stopping at Nepali haunts and learning to appreciate the culture without western influence was a real treat.

We begin again to interview and update photos this coming week and look forward to interacting with girls we are yet to meet. Hearing more stories and seeing God's heart of love poured into lives that respond in tangible ways, will no doubt impact us further.

Thanks for all your prayer support. We are all well and safe.

Geoff, Gloria, Aaron and Brooke Parry